What is Respondus Lockdown Browser?

LockDown Browser is a locked browser for taking quizzes in Canvas. It prevents you from printing, copying, going to another URL, or accessing other applications during an assessment. If a Canvas quiz requires that LockDown Browser be used, you will not be able to take the quiz with a standard web browser. LockDown Browser should only be used for taking Canvas quizzes. It should not be used in other areas of Canvas.

Click here for a video demonstrating the Respondus LockDown Browser.

Installing Lockdown Browser on Your Computer

If LockDown Browser has already been installed, skip to the next section. If not, LockDown Browser must be installed on each computer (Windows, Mac, Chromebook) being used to take a quiz. LockDown Browser is not compatible with cell phones. If cell phone is the only device you have access to, contact your instructor.

• Login to Canvas and click on the quiz. The student will be prompted to download Respondus. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the install.
• Or to install directly from the Respondus website, click here.

For more information about getting started with the LockDown Browser, click here.

Taking an Assessment on Your Computer

You won't be able to access a quiz that requires LockDown Browser with a standard web browser. If this is tried, an error message will indicate that the quiz requires the use of LockDown Browser. Simply start LockDown Browser on your device and sign into Canvas to access your quiz.

1. Close all programs, unless one is used to connect you to the Internet.
2. Locate the “LockDown Browser” shortcut on the desktop and double-click it. (For Mac users, launch “LockDown Browser” from the Applications folder.)
3. If prompted, either close a blocked program (e.g. screen capture, instant messaging) by choosing Yes. Or, close LockDown Browser and close the blocked program before restarting.
4. Log into Canvas with your CVTC username and Commons password.
5. Navigate to the quiz within the course and select Take a Quiz.
6. The quiz will then start. (Note, once a quiz has been started with Respondus LockDown Browser, you cannot exit until the Submit Answers button is clicked.)

Installing Lockdown Browser and Taking a Quiz on an iPad

Your instructor may have enabled your quiz to be taken on an iPad. If you need to take your quiz on an iPad and your instructor has enabled it, follow the directions below. Be sure to verify that you have run any pending iOS system updates before your scheduled exam.

1. Download and Install the free "LockDown Browser" app.
   • If you are using a CVTC-issued iPad, open the Self-Service app. Tap to browse through all apps, then find the LockDown Browser. Click Install to begin installation.
     
     • When available, it is recommended to install apps through the Self-Service app instead of the App Store to ensure automatic software updates.
   • If you are using a personal iPad device, search for the LockDown Browser in the Apple App Store (requires iOS 11 or higher).
2. Before a quiz, launch the LockDown Browser app on your iPad.
3. If you are accessing it for the first time, complete follow the Setup prompts.
4. Once setup is complete, log in to your Canvas account with your CVTC username and Commons password.
5. Find your course and then click on the quiz.
6. You will see a message to "Confirm App Self-Lock." Tap on "Yes" to confirm.
7. Take your quiz and submit it.
8. Exit the app upon completion of the quiz.

If you run into issues with the Lockdown Browser app, it may be helpful to delete and reinstall the app. For detailed instructions with screenshots on using the LockDown Browser app, click here.

Using Lockdown with a Webcam

You may be required to use LockDown Browser with a webcam, which will record you during an online, non-proctored exam. (The webcam feature is sometimes referred to as “Respondus Monitor.”)

Your computer must have a functioning webcam and microphone. A broadband connection is also required. If you do not have access to a webcam, microphone, and/or broadband internet connection, contact your instructor.

If a quiz requires LockDown Browser and a webcam, follow steps 1-6 in the previous “Taking an Assessment" section. At this point, the Startup Sequence for the webcam begins.

• You will first need to review and agree to the Terms of Use.
• The Webcam Check will confirm that your webcam and microphone are working properly.
• The remaining steps of the Startup Sequence will depend on settings chosen by your instructor. Follow the instructions and note your progress along the left side of the screen.
• If you encounter a problem, select the “It’s not working” link for troubleshooting tips.

The quiz will begin after the Startup Sequence is complete. You cannot exit LockDown Browser until the quiz is submitted for grading.

Tips for Taking Your Quiz

When taking your online quiz, consider the following tips.

• Ensure you're in a location where you won't be interrupted.
• Turn off all other devices (tablets, phones, second computers) and place them outside of your reach.
• Before starting the quiz, know how much time is available for it, and also that you've allotted sufficient time to complete it.
• Clear your desk or workspace of all external materials not permitted - books, papers, other devices.
• Remain at your computer for the duration of the quiz.
• If your computer, internet connection, or location is different than what was used previously with the "Webcam Check" and "System & Network Check" in LockDown Browser, run the checks again prior to the exam.
• To produce a good webcam video, do the following:
  • Avoid wearing baseball caps or hats with brims.
  • Ensure your computer or device is on a firm surface (a desk or table). Do NOT have the computer on your lap, a bed, or other surface where the device (or you) are likely to move.
  • If using a built-in webcam, avoid readjusting the tilt of the screen after the webcam setup is complete.
  • Take the exam in a well-lit room, but avoid back lighting (such as sitting with your back to a window).
• Remember that LockDown Browser will prevent you from accessing other websites or applications; you will be unable to exit the quiz until all questions are completed and submitted.

Getting Help

If you have problems downloading, installing, or taking a quiz with Respondus LockDown Browser or Respondus Monitor, immediately contact your instructor. In addition, feel free to use the links below to connect with Respondus resources.

• Knowledge Base: Student Support FAQs
• Submit a support ticket with Respondus
• Live chat support for Respondus Monitor

You can also reach out to CVTC resources for support.

• Student Educational Technology Specialist at 715-833-6464 or edtechhelp@cvtc.edu
  
• IT Service Desk at 715-830-5555 or servicedesk@cvtc.edu

More Resources

Click here for the Respondus Student Resources website.
Click here for Respondus accessibility information and here for the Respondus privacy policy.

Related Articles:

Student Purchase Options
Student Checkout Options
Student Technology Recommendations
Student Tools